The death of Pope Francis has prompted an outpouring of sorrow from world leaders, including Monaco’s Prince Albert II, who led the Principality’s tributes on Monday with an official dispatch expressing “infinite sadness” and deep admiration for the late pontiff’s legacy of compassion, justice and unity.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, died on Easter Monday at the age of 88 following complications from a stroke. As the Vatican prepares for the traditional conclave to choose his successor, nations around the world have entered periods of mourning, including Argentina, his country of birth, and Italy, where he served as Bishop of Rome for 12 years.
In an official message addressed to Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, Prince Albert II conveyed heartfelt condolences on behalf of himself, his family and the entire Monegasque population. He reflected on the pontiff’s unwavering commitment to humanity, highlighting the spiritual and moral guidance that Pope Francis offered throughout his pontificate. “May his tireless message of love, fraternity, peace, faith, justice, mercy, compassion and respect for our nature continue to guide our thoughts and our commitment to the common good,” wrote the Sovereign.
The Prince also recalled the blessings Monaco received during Pope Francis’ reign, and paid tribute to what he described as a “very great servant of humanity”.
Monaco’s government echoed these sentiments in a separate statement, offering its condolences to the Archbishop of Monaco, the local clergy and the Catholic faithful of the Principality. The government noted its hope that the Pope’s teachings and universal message would continue to inspire future generations.
Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope, redefined the papacy with a tone of humility and inclusion that resonated globally but also stirred internal debates within the Church. From his first appearance in 2013 to his final Easter blessing a day before his death, his emphasis on social justice, environmental protection and global solidarity marked a profound shift for the Catholic Church.
His body will be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday, where it will lie in state for public mourning. A Rosary prayer was held in the Vatican’s square on Monday evening, and he will be laid to rest in the Basilica of St. Mary Major, a location personally chosen by Francis for its deep Marian symbolism.
In tribute to the late pontiff, the Diocese of Monaco has announced a commemorative Mass to be held on Tuesday 22nd April at 6:30pm at Monaco Cathedral. The service, presided over by Archbishop Dominique-Marie David, will be open to the public, with live broadcasts airing on Monaco Info and TV Monaco. In his message shared earlier via diocesan social media, Archbishop David praised Pope Francis’ enduring impact on the Church, particularly his love for the poor and his passionate advocacy for the planet. He offered prayers for the repose of the Pope’s soul, declaring, “His pontificate will remain engraved in the hearts of the faithful and far beyond.”
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Photo source: Prince’s Palace